Proper Use

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor, to benefit your condition as much as possible. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. It is very important that you read and understand this information. Be sure to ask your doctor about anything you do not understand.

You may take the medicine with or without food.

For some conditions, it may take a month or longer before you begin to feel better.

If you are using the oral liquid, shake the bottle well before measuring each dose. Measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. A regular household teaspoon will not measure the proper amount of medicine.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

Adults—At first, 20 milligrams (mg) per day as a single dose in the morning. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 80 mg per day. After a few weeks, your doctor may change you to a weekly dose of 90 mg, taken as a single dose one day per week.

Children 8 years of age and older—At first, 10 to 20 mg per day as a single dose in the morning. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.

Children younger than 8 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

For obsessive-compulsive disorder:

Adults—At first, 20 milligrams (mg) per day as a single dose in the morning. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 80 mg per day.

Children 7 years of age and older—At first, 10 mg per day as a single dose in the morning. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 60 mg per day.

Children younger than 7 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

For panic disorder:

Adults—At first, 10 milligrams (mg) per day as a single dose in the morning. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 60 mg per day.

Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

For premenstrual dysphoric disorder:

Adults—At first, 20 milligrams (mg) per day as a single dose in the morning. Your doctor may have you take 20 mg every day of your menstrual cycle or for only 15 days of your cycle. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 80 mg per day.

Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.